Some people might think there are fewer more solitary activities than mountain climbing. Not so, according to the Forest Service, as they’ve announced a closure of Mount Shasta above the 10,000 foot elevation. This is the most popular time of the year to climb the 14,000 foot peak, and up to 7,000 climbers attempt it every year. That makes the Bunny Flat Trailhead congested as crowds of climbers park there and then camp at Helen Lake to spend the night before embarking at daybreak. In addition to the problem of high density camping, the Forest Service is also concerned about their rangers and other emergency personnel being exposed to climbers in need of rescue. The mountain closure is effective immediately.